Natural Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

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Ingrown toenails may be treated using natural products at home, though always consult a doctor if you are ever unsure.

Ingrown toenails are relatively common, as the name suggests, ingrown toenails occur where the nail grows into the toe. They are quite painful, and in extreme cases require medical intervention; however, there are a number of different things that you can do that can help to ease the pain.

Although ingrown toenails can occur on any toenail, it is more likely to be seen on your big toe. The common signs that it is an ingrown toenail include; your toe being red, painful and swollen; your nail curving into the toe; it might also be showing signs of an infection, which can include pus coming out of it and you feeling hot or shivery. If this is the case, it is important that you visit your doctor, who can recommend the best course of treatment for you. You should also make an appointment to see your doctor if you suffer from diabetes, as foot problems can be much more serious and need treating.

Like we said, there are a number of natural remedies that can help to both prevent and treat ingrown toenail. Here are just some of the best ones that you can use.

Apple cider vinegar:

If you are a user of natural remedies, then apple cider vinegar is something that you really should ensure you have in your cupboards. It is so versatile and can be used to treat a number of health complaints, including ingrown toenails. This is because it is both a natural antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory, which will both help to fight infections.

You can use it in a number of different ways. Either add a quarter of a cup of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to warm water and place in a foot-bath. Soak the toenail in the solution for approximately thirty minutes, before drying the area thoroughly. This should be repeated two to three times a day until the toenail has healed.

Alternatively, you can soak a cotton pad into some raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar, and place it onto the affected nail before covering it with a bandage. Leave this on for two to three hours before removing.

Epsom salt:

Epsom salt is commonly used to treat a number of skin conditions, and comes with a number of health benefits. On top of this, it can also be used as a disinfectant, which can help to heal an ingrown toenail. It will help to soften the skin around the area, which in turn will make it easier to draw out the nail, as well as reducing inflammation.

To use this effectively, simply combine a tablespoon of Epsom salt into a tub filled with warm water, before soaking your foot in the solution for 20-30 minutes. Dry the area thoroughly and repeat this step three to four times a week or until the area has completely healed. This is also a great natural pain reliever as well.

Turmeric:

Although you are more likely to find this in your favourite takeaway dish, it has long been used in natural medicine, and has a huge array of health benefits. This is thanks to the curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiseptic, and will help to relieve the discomfort that comes with an ingrown toenail.

There are a number of different ways that you can use turmeric powder to help treat ingrown toenails. You can mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a small amount of mustard oil in order to make a paste. Rub over the affected area, before covering with a bandage. Repeat twice a day, until the area has healed.

You should also try and consume turmeric as well, which will target the inflammation from the inside and help to promote healing, as well as reducing the pain. Simply add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm water or milk, and drink.

Hydrogen peroxide:

This is a great home remedy for ingrown toenails, and is a really popular way of treating them. It will help to reduce the risk of infection, thanks to the fact that it is a great natural disinfectant, and on top of this, it will help to relieve both the pain and the inflammation that comes with an ingrown toenail. It can also help to soften the skin, allowing the nail to be trimmed more easily.

To use this effectively, combine half a cup of hydrogen peroxide with warm water into a foot bath, before soaking the affected foot in the solution for 20-30 minutes twice a day, until the nail has completely healed.

Create your own remedy packed full of essential oils:

You can easily make your own super strength remedy that will help any ingrown toenail to heal and relieve pain and swelling. It uses a range of essential oils that all have different healing properties, but you will create an ointment that you can then rub directly onto the nail and surrounding area, which will promote faster healing time, as well as providing you with the relief from any discomfort as well.

Ingredients:

2oz aloe vera gel

2oz coconut oil

2 drops of peppermint oil

5 drops of eucalyptus oil

5 drops of tea tree oil

1 drop of oregano oil

5 drops of lavender oil

Method:

Simply place all of the above ingredients into a glass jar with a lid, and mix together until they are well combined. Clean the affected toe, rinse and pat dry thoroughly. Apply the ointment over all of the affected area, before allowing this to air dry. Do not put on shoes or socks in this time. Repeat this process two to three times a day until the toe has completely healed.

Disclaimer – Content written for and on behalf of Healthnotepad.com is not professional medical advice and therefore cannot be taken as such. If you have a serious health problem or are affected by any of the topics covered on Healthnotepad.com, you could seek professional medical advice. Please be aware of other issues such as allergens that may come in to play when reviewing our posts. Always consult a doctor if you or a peer has genuine health concerns.

I am a keen writer, with a particular passion for food and the health industry. I love to cook at home in my spare time, and am always looking for new and exciting recipes to try that will also improve my health. I have a keen interest in natural therapies, and how it is possible to treat illnesses well, without turning to more conventional medicines. I have many years of experience as a writer, and passion for health.